JPH09321970A - Facsimile transfer equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide the facsimile transfer equipment in which diversified services are executed in addition to transfer of facsimile data. SOLUTION: The facsimile transfer equipment provided with a storage section 2 storing facsimile data and an equipment control section 1 that stores the facsimile data sent from a sender facsimile equipment to the storage section 2 and transmits the stored facsimile data to a prescribed destination facsimile equipment via a line control section 3 is connected to a public line and a private line. Diversified services are served by adding functions such as trial of transfer to other facsimile equipment when the transfer to a prescribed destination facsimile equipment is disable and storage of facsimile data from a sender and transfer of the data to a destination facsimile equipment in a prescribed timing to the equipment control section 1.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a communication transfer system in a facsimile machine.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In facsimile communication, transmission / reception data may need to be transferred depending on the type of usage.
For example, when a product is received and ordered using a facsimile machine, there is a usage mode in which the contractor uses each facsimile machine to send an order form to a nearby branch office, and each branch office sends it to the head office.

Conventionally, in the case of transferring facsimile data in facsimile communication, a method of transferring a transmission from a sender facsimile machine to a predetermined destination facsimile machine using a telephone exchange or a private branch exchange, For example, a method has been adopted in which a facsimile machine at a branch office receives a transmission from the facsimile machine at the transmission source and transfers it to the facsimile machine at the head office.

[0004]

In the conventional facsimile data transfer processing, the existing telephone exchange or facsimile machine is used to simply transfer the facsimile data transmitted from the sender to the destination facsimile machine. is there. Therefore, it was impossible to provide various services.

[0005]

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention stores storage means for storing facsimile data, and facsimile data transmitted from a facsimile apparatus of a transmission source in the storage means. This is a facsimile transfer apparatus provided with control means for transmitting this to a predetermined transfer destination facsimile apparatus, and this facsimile transfer apparatus is connected to a public line or a dedicated line.

[0006] Then, various services are provided by using the control means.

[0007]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a first embodiment of a facsimile transfer apparatus of the present invention. Reference numeral 1 denotes a device control unit that performs facsimile communication procedures and transfer processing,
Reference numeral 2 is a storage unit for storing facsimile data and the like, and 3 is a line control unit for controlling a communication line.

The device control unit 1 is a part that controls the entire facsimile transfer device, controls the storage unit 2 and the line control unit 3, and controls the processing of the facsimile transfer device. The storage unit 2 is
It stores facsimile data and the like, and RAM is mainly used. An external storage device such as a magnetic disk may be used together depending on the storage capacity.

A line is connected to the line control unit 3 to electrically control this line. The device control unit 1 controls the storage unit 2 and the line control unit 3 to mainly perform the following processing. (1) Facsimile communication incoming call processing to the line control unit 3 By issuing a facsimile communication incoming call request from the device control unit 1 to the line control unit 3, the line control unit 3 receives a facsimile incoming call from the public line. It becomes possible. (2) Facsimile communication reception processing for the line control unit 3 The device control unit 1 issues a facsimile communication reception request to the line control unit 3 so that the line control unit 3 starts receiving facsimile data from the public line. To do.

Then, the line control unit 3 transfers the facsimile data received from the public line to the device control unit 1. When the line control unit 3 detects the end of the facsimile data, it issues a facsimile data end notification to the device control unit 1. (3) Facsimile communication calling process for the line control unit 3 The device control unit 1 issues a facsimile communication call request to the line control unit 3 by designating a telephone number of a facsimile transmission destination, thereby issuing a facsimile communication call request. Performs calling processing of facsimile communication with respect to a public line.

Further, the line control unit 3 issues a call completion notice to the device control unit 1 when the calling process is completed and the connection with the destination facsimile is completed. (4) Facsimile communication transmission process for the line control unit 3 The device control unit 1 specifies facsimile transmission data to the line control unit 3 and issues a facsimile communication transmission request, so that the line control unit 3 transmits the facsimile data. Send to the destination facsimile.

When the transmission of the designated facsimile data is completed, the line controller 3 issues a facsimile data transmission completion notice to the device controller 1. (5) Facsimile communication disconnection process for the line control unit 3 By issuing a facsimile communication disconnection request from the device control unit 1 to the line control unit 3, the line control unit 3 performs the disconnection process for the connection line to the public line. To do.

Further, the line control unit 3 issues a disconnection completion notice to the device control unit 1 when the disconnection processing of the connection line is completed. (6) Facsimile Received Data Storing Process for Storage Unit 2 The device control unit 1 specifies facsimile data and requests the storage unit 2 to store the facsimile data. Store the data. (7) Facsimile transmission data acquisition process for storage unit 2 By issuing a facsimile data acquisition request from the device control unit 1 to the storage unit 2, the storage unit 2 acquires the stored facsimile data and performs device control. The acquired facsimile data is returned to the copy 1.

The flow of general processing for transferring facsimile communication using the above-mentioned facsimile transfer device will be described below. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing during facsimile transfer. S1 / waiting for incoming call: By issuing a facsimile communication incoming call request from the device control section 1 to the line control section 3, the line control section 3 becomes ready to receive an incoming call from the public line. . S2 / Incoming call: Communication from the facsimile transmission source is received by the line control unit 3 and notified to the device control unit 1. S3 / Reception request: Upon receiving the facsimile communication incoming call notification from the line control unit 3, the device control unit 1 issues a facsimile communication reception request to the line control unit 3. S4 / Reception: The line control unit 3 receives the facsimile data transmitted from the facsimile transmission source, and notifies the device control unit 1 of the received facsimile data. S5 / Store: The device control unit 1 specifies the received facsimile data and requests the storage unit 2 to store the facsimile data. As a result, the received facsimile data is stored in the storage unit 2. S6 / Disconnection: The device control unit 1 issues a request to disconnect the facsimile line to the line control unit 3, and the line control unit 3 disconnects the line with the facsimile transmission source. S7 / Calling: When the facsimile data for transfer is stored in the storage unit 2, the device control unit 1 issues a facsimile communication call request to the line control unit 3 to transfer to the facsimile transfer destination. By doing so, the line control unit 3 performs a calling process to the facsimile transfer destination. Here, the facsimile telephone number of the destination of the facsimile transfer is stored in the storage unit 2 in advance, and the apparatus control unit 1 stores it in the storage unit 2 when the transfer facsimile data is stored in the storage unit 2. A facsimile communication call request is issued to the line control unit 3 by designating the facsimile telephone number of the facsimile transfer destination. S8 / Acquisition: When the line with the facsimile transfer destination is connected, the device control unit 1 issues a facsimile data acquisition request to the storage unit 2. When the storage unit 2 receives the facsimile data acquisition request, it performs a facsimile data acquisition process and retrieves the stored facsimile data. S9 / transmission: The device control section 1 specifies the acquired facsimile data and issues a facsimile transmission request to the line control section 3. As a result, the line control unit 3 transmits the facsimile data to the transfer destination. S10 / Disconnection: When the transfer of the facsimile data stored in the storage unit 2 is completed, the device control unit 1 issues a disconnection request for facsimile communication to the line control unit 3. As a result, the line controller 3 disconnects the connection line to the public line.

After that, the device control section 1 deletes the facsimile data stored in the storage section 2. In addition, in the above-described first embodiment, addition of the following functions may be considered. For example, by using a plurality of communication lines connected to the line control unit 3, it is possible to operate by multiplexing the reception process and the transmission process of facsimile data.

Further, as the timing for transmitting the facsimile data to the transfer destination, the following designation can be made. That is, when the target facsimile data is generated, it is possible to determine the transmission timing to the transfer destination immediately by designating a fixed time period such as an hour unit and a regular time such as once a day.

As described above, in the first embodiment of the present invention, the facsimile transmission source can perform the facsimile transmission regardless of whether the transmission destination is the facsimile device or the facsimile transfer device. In addition, the facsimile transmission source can perform facsimile transmission at a cheap telephone fee by performing facsimile transmission to a facsimile transfer device installed nearby.

Further, when the facsimile transfer devices are installed at a plurality of locations or by installing a plurality of lines in the facsimile transfer devices, each facsimile transfer device stores the facsimile data, so that the final facsimile reception is performed. Even when the number of communication lines of the person (facsimile transfer destination) is small, it is possible to perform facsimile transmission while minimizing the line busy when transmitting from the facsimile transmission source.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a second embodiment of the facsimile transfer apparatus of the present invention. In the facsimile transfer apparatus according to the second embodiment, the print control unit 4 and the printing apparatus 5 are added to the apparatus described in FIG. 1 so that the facsimile data at the time of transfer can be printed by the facsimile transfer apparatus.

For this reason, a printing process for making a print request to the print control unit 4 is added to the device control unit 1. That is, when the device control unit 1 determines that printing is necessary, the device control unit 1 makes a print request to the print control unit 4. The print control unit 4 receives the print request from the device control unit 1 and controls the printing device 5 to perform printing.

As described above, in the facsimile transfer apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention, the facsimile data received from the facsimile transmission source is transferred to the facsimile transfer destination, and at the same time, the printing apparatus connected to the facsimile transfer apparatus transmits the facsimile data. Data can be printed. Hereinafter, a flow of processing for transferring facsimile communication and printing transfer data using the facsimile transfer apparatus according to the second embodiment will be described.

The communication from the facsimile transmission source is received by the line control unit 3 and is notified to the facsimile communication incoming call processing of the device control unit 1. The received communication is received by the facsimile communication reception process by the device control unit 1, and the received facsimile data is stored in the storage unit 2 by the facsimile reception data storage process.

When the facsimile reception is completed, the communication with the facsimile transmission source is disconnected by the facsimile communication disconnection processing. The details of the processing up to this point are described in S1 of FIG.
It is the same as the processing described in S6 to S6. The device control unit 1 issues a print request to the print control unit 4 in order to print the received facsimile data.

In the print control unit 4, the facsimile data stored in the storage unit 2 for processing the print request issued from the device control unit 1 is taken out, and the facsimile taken out by using the printing device 5 is taken out. Print the data. When the facsimile data for transfer is stored in the storage unit 2, the apparatus control unit 1 uses the line control unit 3 for the facsimile communication call process to transfer to the facsimile transfer destination. Perform call processing.
The facsimile telephone number of the facsimile transfer destination is assumed to be stored in the storage unit 2 in advance, and the facsimile communication call processing is performed by designating this facsimile telephone number.

When the line to the facsimile transfer destination is connected, the facsimile transmission data acquisition process of the device control unit 1 extracts the facsimile data stored in the storage unit 2, and the facsimile communication transmission process performs the facsimile data transmission process. To the forwarding destination. When the transfer of the facsimile data stored in the storage unit 2 is completed, the communication with the facsimile transfer destination is disconnected by the facsimile communication disconnection process of the device control unit 1, and the facsimile data stored in the storage unit 2 is deleted. Is done.

The details of the processing up to this point except the printing processing are the same as the processing described in S7 to S10 of FIG. In addition, in the above-mentioned second embodiment, addition of the following functions may be considered. For example, the device control unit 1
By issuing a facsimile transmission request to the line control unit 3 and a print request to the print control unit 4 in parallel,
It is possible to operate the facsimile transmission process and the printing process in parallel.

Further, the timing for printing the facsimile data can be specified as shown below. That is, immediately when the target facsimile data is generated, 1
It is possible to determine the printing timing by designating a fixed time period such as a time unit or a regular time such as once a day.

As described above, in the second embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to grasp the content of the facsimile data transferred at the place where the facsimile transfer device is installed. For example, taking order processing as an example,
If the customer's order form is being transferred to the head office using the facsimile transfer device installed in the branch, it is possible to automatically transfer the customer's order form to the head office and print at the branch. Therefore, it becomes possible to grasp the order status from the customer in the branch.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a third embodiment of the facsimile transfer apparatus of the present invention. In the facsimile transfer apparatus according to the third embodiment, the display control section 6, the display apparatus 7, the input control section 8 and the input apparatus 9 are added to the apparatus described with reference to FIG. And

Further, the following processing for controlling the above configuration is added to the device control section 1. That is, a display process of making a display request to the display control unit 6, an input process of receiving input data from the input control unit 8, and a search process of searching the facsimile data stored in the storage unit 2 are added.

Thus, when the device control unit 1 determines that the display on the display device 7 is necessary, the display process of the device control unit 11 requests the display control unit 6 for display. The display control unit 6 receives the display request from the device control unit 1 and displays on the display device 7. Further, when the device control section 1 requires an input from an operator, an input request is issued to the input control section 8.

The input control unit 8 receives an input request from the device control unit 1, causes the operator to make an input using the input device 9, and returns the input result to the device control unit 1. As described above, in the third embodiment of the present invention, the facsimile data that has been transferred can be stored in the storage unit 2 without being deleted, and the facsimile data can be displayed on the display device 7 according to the instruction of the operator. And Further, by using the print control unit 4 and the printing device 5 described in the second embodiment,
The facsimile data displayed on the display device 7 can be printed.

The flow of processing for filing facsimile data using the facsimile transfer apparatus of the third embodiment will be described below. The device control unit 1 stores the facsimile data stored in the storage unit 2 without deleting the facsimile data even after the facsimile data received from the facsimile transmission source is transferred to the transfer destination by performing the facsimile transfer process described in FIG. I'll do it.

Information to be described below is added to the facsimile data stored in the storage unit 2 in order to perform a search. That is, the reception time of the facsimile data, the source information of the facsimile data, and the transfer destination information of the facsimile data are added to the facsimile data. When the operator refers to the facsimile data stored in the facsimile transfer device, the following processing is performed.

First, search conditions are input from the input device 9. The search condition input from the input device 9 is notified to the device control unit 1 through the input control unit 8. The device control unit 1 searches the facsimile data stored in the storage unit 2 based on the search condition input from the input device 9.
When the search is performed, the device control unit 1 issues a display request to the display control unit 6.

In response to the display request from the device control unit 1, the display control unit 6 displays the search result information on the display device 7. The operator gives an instruction to the input device 9 for the facsimile data to be referred from the search result information displayed on the display device 7. At this time, it is instructed whether the reference of the facsimile data is displayed on the display device 7 or printed by the printing device 5.

When it is instructed to refer to the facsimile data on the display device 7, the device control portion 1 instructs the display control portion 6 to display the facsimile data accumulated in the storage portion 2 on the display device 7. Issue a display request. Upon receiving the display request issued from the device control unit 1, the display control unit 6 displays the facsimile data on the display device 7.

When the device control section 1 is instructed to print the facsimile data by the printing device 5 for reference,
A print request is issued to the print control unit 4 in order to print the facsimile data stored in the storage unit 2 by the printing device 5. The print control unit 4 receives the print request issued from the device control unit 1 and transmits the facsimile data to the printing device 5.
Print with.

The facsimile data stored in the storage unit 2 is deleted under the following conditions. That is, the deletion is performed when an operator gives a deletion instruction, when the storage area of the storage unit 2 becomes full, or when a designated date has passed. As described above, in the third embodiment of the present invention, the content of the facsimile data transferred at the location where the facsimile transfer device is installed can be grasped after the transfer to the transfer destination. is there. At this time, the operator can specify the reference on the display device and the printing on the printing device. Therefore, by printing only the necessary facsimile data, the printing cost can be minimized.

Further, since the facsimile data referred to by the display device or the printing device remains in the storage unit, it can be transferred to another transfer destination according to the instruction of the operator. Next, a fourth embodiment of the facsimile transfer apparatus of the present invention will be described. In the fourth embodiment, the transfer destination can be designated by the facsimile transmission source information. The configuration of the facsimile transfer device is the same as that described with reference to FIG.

The storage unit 2 described with reference to FIG. 1 stores a transfer table showing a list of facsimile source information and facsimile transfer destination information. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the transfer table. The transfer table stores a sender identifier 11, a sender ID 12, and a transfer destination telephone number 13. The sender identifier 11 usually stores a company name or a department name, and the sender ID 12 usually stores a telephone number of a facsimile line.

In the transfer table of FIG. 5, the facsimile data received from "Yamada Shoten" is "01
1-111-1111 ". Similarly, the facsimile data received from "Satodenki" is "02
2-222-2222 ". Here, since the transfer table is searched in order from the top, the sender ID 12 is other than "Yamada Shoten" or "Satodenki".
Facsimile data received from a place starting with "03" is transferred to "033-333-3333".

Similarly, the facsimile data received from the place where the sender ID 12 starts with "06" is "044-4".
44-4444 ”. Facsimile data received from a sender ID that does not match any of the above is transferred to "055-555-5555". The device control unit 1 is additionally provided with a transfer destination determination process for determining the transfer destination of the facsimile data by referring to the transfer table of FIG.

The flow of processing for determining the facsimile transfer destination by referring to the sender information of the facsimile using the facsimile transfer apparatus of the fourth embodiment will be described below. Note that the transfer table described in FIG. 5 is used. Here, the details of the overall flow of the facsimile transfer process are the same as those described in FIG.

The communication from the facsimile transmission source is received by the line control unit 3 and notified to the facsimile communication incoming call processing of the device control unit 1. At this time, the sender identifier and sender ID of the sender of the facsimile are acquired by the facsimile communication procedure. The received communication is received by the facsimile communication reception process by the device control unit 1, and the received facsimile data and the facsimile transmission source information (transmission source identifier and transmission source ID) are stored in the storage unit 2 by the facsimile reception data storage process. Accumulated in.

When the facsimile reception is completed, the communication with the facsimile transmission source is disconnected by the facsimile communication disconnection process. When the facsimile data for transfer is stored in the storage unit 2, the device control unit 1 transfers the control to the transfer destination determination processing to determine the facsimile transfer destination, and refers to the transfer table to transfer the transfer destination. The telephone number is determined.

When the telephone number of the transfer destination is determined, the device control unit 1 uses the line control unit 3 to perform the call processing to the facsimile transfer destination by the facsimile communication call processing to transfer to the facsimile transfer destination. To do. When the line to the facsimile transfer destination is connected, the device control unit 1 extracts the facsimile data stored in the storage unit 2 by the facsimile transmission data acquisition process and transmits the facsimile data to the transfer destination by the facsimile communication transmission process. .

When the transfer of the facsimile data stored in the storage unit 2 is completed, the communication with the facsimile transfer destination is disconnected by the facsimile communication disconnection process,
The facsimile data accumulated in the storage unit 2 is deleted. As described above, according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, the transfer destination of the facsimile communication can be determined for each facsimile transmission source or for each group. It becomes possible to automate the sorting work.

For example, in the case of using a facsimile in ordering goods, when receiving an order collectively at the ordering center of the head office, the order form can be transferred to the branch in charge for each district of the originator of the facsimile. It will be possible. Next, a fifth embodiment of the facsimile transfer apparatus of the present invention will be described. In the fifth embodiment, the facsimile transmission source information can also be transferred. The configuration of the facsimile transfer device is the same as that described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a data flow in the fifth embodiment, in which 21 is a transmission source facsimile apparatus, 22 is a facsimile transfer apparatus, and 23 is a transfer destination facsimile apparatus. The facsimile data transmitted from the source facsimile device 21 is relayed by the facsimile transfer device 22 and transferred to the transfer destination facsimile device 23. At this time, the facsimile data is transferred from the facsimile transfer device 22 to the transfer destination facsimile device 23. In the facsimile communication, the facsimile transmission source information set in the facsimile protocol becomes the information of the facsimile transfer device 22.

Therefore, in the fifth embodiment, from the facsimile transfer device 22 to the transfer destination facsimile device 23.
The facsimile transmission source information set in the facsimile protocol is set to be that of the transmission source facsimile device 21 during the facsimile communication to the. The flow of processing of the fifth embodiment will be described below.

The details of the entire flow of the facsimile transfer process are the same as those described with reference to FIG. In the facsimile communication from the source facsimile device 21 to the facsimile transfer device 22, the device control unit 1 of the facsimile transfer device 22 transmits the source information (source identifier and source ID of the source facsimile device 21 at the same time as the facsimile data. Etc.) are stored in the storage unit 2.

Then, when transferring the facsimile data accumulated in the storage unit 2 of the facsimile transfer device 22 to the transfer destination facsimile device 23, the device control unit 1 transfers the source information stored together with the facsimile data to the transfer destination information. The data is transmitted to the facsimile device 23. As described above, in the fifth embodiment of the present invention, when the facsimile data of the transfer destination receives the facsimile data, the information of the facsimile machine of the transmission source is output as the transmission source information. Transfer is possible without being aware of the transfer.

Further, in the case where the facsimile machine of the transfer destination refers to the sender information to perform automatic processing (FAX-O
In the case of a CR system, etc.), the actual sender information is transferred, so correct processing is possible. Here, the automatic processing refers to a case where a response result to received facsimile data is transmitted using sender information, a case where a result of totaling received facsimile data is used using sender information, and the like.

Next explained is the sixth embodiment of the facsimile transfer apparatus of the invention. In the sixth embodiment, when the transfer to the designated transfer destination is impossible, the transfer can be performed to another transfer destination. The configuration of the facsimile transfer device is the same as that described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing a data flow in the sixth embodiment, in which 21 is a source facsimile machine, 22 is a facsimile transfer device, and 23a to 23c are transfer destination facsimile devices.

When the facsimile transfer device 22 detects that the transfer to the first transfer destination facsimile device 23a is impossible, the facsimile transfer device 22 transfers the transfer destination to the second transfer destination facsimile device 23b. Further, when it is detected that the transfer to the second transfer destination facsimile device 23b is impossible, the third transfer destination facsimile device 23 is detected.
The transfer to c is performed.

The processing flow of the sixth embodiment will be described below. The details of the flow of the facsimile transfer process are the same as those described in FIG. Facsimile data from the source facsimile device 21 is transmitted to the facsimile transfer device 22 and stored in the storage unit 2. The device control unit 1 of the facsimile transfer device 22 transfers the facsimile data stored in the storage unit 2 to the first transfer destination facsimile device 23a.

At this time, the device control section 1 of the facsimile transfer device 22 has the first transfer destination facsimile device 23a.
When it is detected that the transfer to the second transfer destination is impossible, the transfer to the second transfer destination facsimile device 23b is performed. Here, the untransferable status is, for example, the case where the following status is detected during facsimile transfer. That is, when the facsimile transfer destination does not receive an incoming call, when the facsimile transfer destination is busy, or when a communication error occurs during facsimile transfer.

Device control unit 1 of the facsimile transfer device 22
Transfers the facsimile data to the second transfer destination facsimile device 23b if transfer to the second transfer destination facsimile device 23b is possible, but transfers to the second transfer destination facsimile device 23b. When the impossible state is detected, the transfer is performed to the third transfer destination facsimile device 23c.

The transfer destination is changed by holding the following information in the storage unit 2 of the facsimile transfer device 22. (1) List of Facsimile Transfer Destinations and Transfer Order For example, in FIG. 7, information such as the facsimile telephone numbers of the facsimile devices 23a to 23c and the transfer order are stored. (2) Number of retries until detecting a situation in which transfer to the facsimile transfer destination is impossible For example, even if the facsimile transfer destination does not receive a call, retry is made to the same transfer destination after a certain period of time. If the transfer destination does not receive the call after repeating this operation a specified number of times, it is determined that the transfer is impossible and the transfer is performed to the transfer destination having the next transfer order. (3) Number of retries when transfer to all transfer destinations is impossible For example, in FIG. 7, when the transfer is impossible even if the transfer is tried in order to the facsimile devices 23a to 23c, the facsimile having the lowest transfer order Attempt transfer to device 23a. And
If transfer is not possible even after repeating this operation a specified number of times, it is determined that the entire transfer is impossible.

As described above, in the sixth embodiment of the present invention, when the transfer destination facsimile apparatus cannot receive due to a failure, it is possible to transfer to another designated facsimile apparatus. Further, when the facsimile data is concentrated on a certain destination facsimile machine, the facsimile data can be dispersed and transferred to a plurality of other facsimile machines.

Next, a seventh embodiment of the facsimile transfer apparatus of the present invention will be described. In the seventh embodiment, when the transfer to the designated transfer destination is impossible, the notification can be made to the sender facsimile machine. The configuration of the facsimile transfer device is the same as that described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a data flow in the seventh embodiment, in which 21 is a transmission source facsimile device, 22 is a facsimile transfer device, and 23 is a transfer destination facsimile device.

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the conversion table. This conversion table is a table for acquiring the sender facsimile telephone number from the sender ID and is stored in the storage unit 2. Then, the facsimile transfer device 22
When it detects that the transfer to the transfer destination facsimile device 23 is impossible, it acquires the facsimile telephone number of the transmission source facsimile device by referring to the conversion table and does not transfer to the transmission source facsimile device. It is a notification of the possibility.

The process flow of the seventh embodiment will be described below. Facsimile data from the source facsimile device 21 is transmitted to the facsimile transfer device 22 and stored in the storage unit 2. At this time, the storage unit 2 stores the facsimile data at the same time as the facsimile data of the transmission source.
The transmission source identifier, transmission source ID, transmission date, and transmission time transmitted from are also accumulated.

Device control unit 1 of the facsimile transfer device 22
Transfers the facsimile data stored in the storage unit 2 to the destination facsimile device 23. At this time, the device control unit 1 of the facsimile transfer device 22 determines that the transfer to the transfer destination facsimile device 23 is impossible when the following conditions are detected. That is, when the facsimile transfer destination does not receive an incoming call, when the facsimile transfer destination is busy, or when a communication error occurs during facsimile transfer.

Device control unit 1 of the facsimile transfer device 22
When it determines that the transfer to the transfer destination facsimile device 23 is impossible, the transfer source facsimile ID number is generated from the transmission source ID using the conversion table described in FIG. Then, the device control unit 1 of the facsimile transfer device 22 sends a non-transferable notification, which describes the following contents, to the generated source facsimile telephone number by facsimile. That is, the sender identifier and the sender I
A non-transferable notification in which D, a transmission date, a transmission time, an arbitrary message, and the like are described is transmitted to the transmission source facsimile device 21. Here, FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the transfer impossible notification.

As described above, in the seventh embodiment of the present invention, even when the facsimile transfer apparatus detects a state in which transfer is impossible, the facsimile sender is notified to perform alternative transmission. It is possible to get it. For example, it is possible to send to another facsimile telephone number. Next, an eighth embodiment of the facsimile transfer apparatus of the present invention will be described.

In the eighth embodiment, the transfer destination can be instructed from the source facsimile machine. The configuration of the facsimile transfer device is the same as that described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a data flow in the eighth embodiment, in which 21 is a sender facsimile machine, 22 is a facsimile transfer apparatus, and 23a and 23a.
Reference numeral b indicates a transfer destination facsimile machine.

In the eighth embodiment, when a facsimile communication is performed from the transmission source facsimile device 21 to the facsimile transfer device 22, the transfer destination facsimile telephone number is set in the transmission source ID, so that the facsimile transfer is performed. The device 22 transfers the facsimile data to the specified destination facsimile telephone number. The process flow of the eighth embodiment will be described below.

The source facsimile device 21 adds the destination facsimile telephone number to the source ID and performs facsimile communication with the facsimile transfer device 22. Facsimile communication from the source facsimile device 21 is transmitted to the facsimile transfer device 22, and the storage unit 2
Is accumulated in At this time, in the storage unit 2, the sender ID is also stored together with the facsimile data, to which the facsimile telephone number of the transfer destination transmitted from the facsimile apparatus 21 of the sender is added.

Device control unit 1 of the facsimile transfer device 22
When transferring the facsimile data stored in the storage unit 2, determines the transfer destination by referring to the sender ID stored simultaneously with the facsimile data. Then, the device control section 1 performs a facsimile transfer to the facsimile telephone number determined by the sender ID. For example, in the case of FIG. 11, the facsimile telephone number of the destination facsimile device 23a is "03-1111-1111".
If the facsimile telephone number of the facsimile device 23b is "03-2222-2222", the facsimile data A transmitted from the facsimile device 21 of the transmission source has a transmission source ID of "03-1111" as the transmission destination facsimile telephone number. , "11111" is added, the device control unit 1 of the facsimile transfer device 22 transfers the facsimile data A to the facsimile device 23a, and the facsimile data B to be transmitted from the originating facsimile device 21.
Is the sender ID and the destination facsimile telephone number is "03-
2222-2222 "is added, the device control section 1 transfers the facsimile data B to the facsimile device 23b.

As described above, in the eighth embodiment of the present invention, since the transfer destination to be transferred by the facsimile transfer device can be designated by the facsimile transmission source, a dedicated line is provided from the facsimile transmission source to the facsimile transfer device. It is possible to take a connection form in which communication is performed and communication is performed from the facsimile transfer device to the transfer destination facsimile device via a public line, and it is possible to reduce communication costs.

Further, by using a facsimile transfer device of the form shown in FIG. 3, the facsimile data transferred by the facsimile transfer device is printed when the facsimile transfer is performed to a plurality of facsimile transfer destinations. It becomes possible to grasp the facsimile data in. For example, when an order confirmation document is transmitted as facsimile data using a facsimile in the order processing, the order is transmitted from each order center to each customer via a facsimile transfer device installed in a branch. in this case,
If the facsimile telephone number of each customer is added to the sender ID, a dedicated line can be used from the order receiving center to the branch.

In this case, by printing the facsimile data with the facsimile transfer device installed in the branch, the order confirmation center can confirm the order confirmation contents for the customer at the branch as well. Next, a ninth embodiment of the facsimile transfer apparatus of the present invention will be described. In the ninth embodiment, facsimile data from a plurality of transmission source facsimile devices can be collectively transferred to one transfer destination. The configuration of the facsimile transfer device is shown in FIG.
Suppose you use the same one described in.

FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing a data flow in the ninth embodiment, wherein 21a and 21b are transmission source facsimile devices, 22 is a facsimile transfer device, and 23 is a transfer destination facsimile device. In the ninth embodiment, when facsimile communication is performed from the source facsimile devices 21a and 21b to the facsimile transfer device 22, facsimile data from both of them is stored, and when predetermined timing arrives, both data are stored. The above facsimile data is collectively transferred to the destination facsimile device 23.

The processing flow of the ninth embodiment will be described below. The source facsimile device 21a transmits facsimile data to the facsimile transfer device 22. The facsimile transfer device 22 stores the facsimile data transmitted from the transmission source in the storage unit 2. Similarly, when the facsimile data is transmitted from the transmission source facsimile device 21 b to the facsimile transfer device 22, the facsimile transfer device 22 also stores the facsimile data in the storage unit 2.

Then, the device control section 1 of the facsimile transfer device 22 receives the facsimile data received from the source facsimile device 21a and the source facsimile device 2a.
Both of the facsimile data received from 1b are transferred to the transfer destination facsimile device 23 at a predetermined timing. In transferring a plurality of facsimile data, the transfer is performed in the order received by the facsimile transfer device 22.

Here, the timing for transmitting the facsimile data from the facsimile transfer device 22 to the transfer destination facsimile device 23 can be designated as follows. In addition,
The transmission timing is changed by an instruction to the device control unit 1. Check if there is facsimile data stored at specified intervals, for example, every 30 minutes,
If there is accumulated facsimile data, it is sent together to the destination facsimile device 23.

Alternatively, it is inspected whether or not the facsimile data accumulated at the designated time exists, and if there is facsimile data accumulated, the facsimile data is collectively transmitted to the facsimile device 23 of the transfer destination. It is possible to specify a plurality of times for checking the presence / absence of facsimile data. Here, the device control unit 1 may automatically transmit the facsimile data to the transfer destination facsimile device 23 when detecting that the remaining capacity of the storage unit 2 has decreased.

As described above, in the ninth embodiment of the present invention, by collectively transmitting the facsimile data to the transfer destination, it is possible to reduce the time required for the facsimile transmission / disconnection processing, It is possible to reduce communication costs. Further, by setting the facsimile transfer time at night, it becomes possible to concentrate on reception from the facsimile transmission source in the daytime, and it becomes possible to improve the line use efficiency.

Further, by setting the facsimile transfer time at night, the communication charge for facsimile transfer becomes the night charge, and the communication cost can be reduced.
Next, a tenth embodiment of the facsimile transfer apparatus of the present invention will be described. In the tenth embodiment, the facsimile transfer device can be maintained from a remote place. The configuration of the facsimile transfer device is the same as that described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a data flow in the tenth embodiment, in which 21 is a transmission source facsimile apparatus, 22 is a facsimile transfer apparatus, 23 is a transfer destination facsimile apparatus, and 24 is a maintenance apparatus. . Here, the maintenance device 24 is composed of a facsimile device or a telephone. In the tenth embodiment, a tone signal recognition function is added to the line control unit 3, and when a tone signal is received from the maintenance device 24, various settings are changed according to the contents.

The process flow of the tenth embodiment will be described below. From the maintenance device 24 to the facsimile transfer device 2
In order to maintain item 2, the maintenance device 24 makes a call to the facsimile transfer device 22. The facsimile transfer device 22 receives an incoming call from the maintenance device 24. Maintenance device 2
At 4, in order to instruct maintenance of the facsimile transfer device 22, a maintenance personal identification number is input by a tone signal.

The facsimile transfer device 22 recognizes the personal identification number from the maintenance device 24 and shifts to the maintenance mode. The maintenance device 24 indicates the maintenance information of the facsimile transfer device 22 by a combination of predetermined tone signals. An example of maintenance contents is shown below. (1) Change of facsimile transfer destination For example, when changing the transfer destination to "03-1111-1111", enter "1 # 03-1111-1111 #". Here, "1 #" indicates that the facsimile transfer destination is changed. (2) Extraction of Communication History Held by Facsimile Transfer Device 22 For example, when an input of “2 #” is received, the facsimile transfer device 22 causes the maintenance device 24 to facsimile the communication history stored in the storage unit 2. Send as data. (3) Setting of Transfer Time In the ninth embodiment, for example, when a predetermined timing comes by setting the time, transfer to the destination facsimile machine is performed. However, for example, when transfer is performed at regular intervals. If you want to set the time in units of 30 minutes, select "3 # 30".
Is specified. Further, when designating the time when the transfer is performed at the predetermined time as 21:00, "4 # 2100
# ”Is specified. Note that the numerical values used for these designations are examples and different numerical values may be applied.

As described above, in the tenth embodiment of the present invention, when a failure occurs in the transfer destination facsimile apparatus, the transfer destination can be changed without going to the place where the facsimile transfer apparatus is installed. It becomes possible to do. Further, it becomes possible to retrieve various information such as communication history held by the facsimile transfer device at a remote place.

Further, various settings of the facsimile transfer device can be performed from a remote place.

[0087]

As described above, according to the present invention, the storage means for storing the facsimile data and the facsimile data transmitted from the facsimile machine of the transmission source are stored in the storage means, and are stored in the predetermined transfer destination. The facsimile transfer device is provided with a control means for transmitting to the facsimile device, and the facsimile transfer device is connected to a public line or a dedicated line.

As a result, various services can be provided by using the control means. For example, when it is impossible to transfer to a predetermined destination facsimile machine, the facsimile data is transferred to another destination facsimile machine, or is transmitted from a single or a plurality of source facsimile machines. It is possible to store the facsimile data and transfer it to the transfer destination facsimile device in batch at a predetermined timing, and it is possible to provide the service according to the user's request.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a first embodiment of a facsimile transfer apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing at the time of facsimile transfer.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a second embodiment of a facsimile transfer apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a third embodiment of a facsimile transfer apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a transfer table.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a data flow in the fifth embodiment.

FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing a data flow in the sixth embodiment.

FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a data flow according to the seventh embodiment.

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a conversion table.

FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a transfer impossible notification.

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a data flow according to the eighth embodiment.

FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing a data flow according to the ninth embodiment.

FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a data flow according to the tenth embodiment.

[Explanation of symbols]

 1 Device control unit 2 Storage unit 3 Line control unit

Claims (10)

[Claims] 1. A storage means for storing facsimile data, and a control means for storing the facsimile data transmitted from a source facsimile apparatus in the storage means and transmitting it to a predetermined destination facsimile apparatus. A facsimile transfer device characterized in that 2. The facsimile transfer apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a printing unit that prints the facsimile data stored in the storage unit. 3. The facsimile transfer apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein display means for displaying the facsimile data stored in the storage means, and retrieval for searching desired data from the facsimile data stored in the storage means. A facsimile transfer apparatus comprising means. 4. The facsimile transfer apparatus according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the storage means stores a table in which data specifying a facsimile transmission source and a transfer destination facsimile telephone number are associated with each other. The facsimile transfer apparatus, wherein the control means determines the transfer destination from the data specifying the transmission source transmitted together with the facsimile data from the transmission source facsimile apparatus by referring to the table. 5. The facsimile transfer apparatus according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the control means transfers the data specifying the sender transmitted from the sender facsimile apparatus together with the facsimile data to the transfer destination facsimile apparatus. A facsimile transfer device characterized by transmitting together with facsimile data. 6. The facsimile transfer apparatus according to claim 1, 2, or 3, wherein the control unit determines that transfer to a previously specified transfer destination facsimile apparatus is impossible.
A facsimile transfer device that transfers to another facsimile device. 7. The facsimile transfer apparatus according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein when the control unit determines that transfer to a previously designated transfer destination facsimile apparatus is impossible,
A facsimile machine characterized by transmitting a transfer impossible notice to a sender facsimile machine. 8. The facsimile transfer apparatus according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the control means determines the transfer destination from data designating the transfer destination transmitted together with the facsimile data from the source facsimile apparatus. Characteristic facsimile transfer device. 9. The facsimile transfer apparatus according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the control means stores in the storage means facsimile data transmitted from a single or a plurality of origination facsimile machines. When the predetermined timing comes,
A facsimile transfer apparatus, which collectively transmits the stored facsimile data to a transfer destination facsimile apparatus. 10. The facsimile transfer apparatus according to claim 1, 2, or 3, wherein the control means, when receiving a signal predetermined for maintenance, performs maintenance processing according to the type of signal. A facsimile transfer device characterized by: